Pivot bin assembly

ABSTRACT

A pivot bin assembly configured to receive luggage and be positioned in the interior of an aircraft. The pivot bin assembly includes an upper housing that includes a strongback and first and second side panels, a bucket that cooperates with the upper housing to define a bin interior, a first pivot mechanism operatively associated with the first side panel and the bucket, and a second pivot mechanism operatively associated with the second side panel and the bucket. The first and second pivot mechanisms are axially aligned along and are rotatable about a pivot axis such that the bucket pivots about the pivot axis with respect to the upper housing between an open position and a closed position.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No.61/598,856, filed Feb. 14, 2012, and U.S. Provisional Application No.61/598,816, filed Feb. 14, 2012, which are both herein incorporated byreference in their entireties.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to overhead storage binassemblies, and more particularly to an overhead storage bin assemblythat includes a pivot bin and personal service unit.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Commercial aircraft, such as the Airbus A320 or Boeing 737 are typicallyconstructed from modular components, the size, weight and constructionof which are dictated by many considerations, including fuselagedimensions, aesthetic and safety considerations. Many of theserequirements are imposed by law or regulation. Aircraft components, suchas overhead stowage compartments, seats, lavatories, galleys, lightingsystems, etc. are all required to function within strictly confinedspaces.

Manufacturers of aircraft are constantly refining interior aircraftdesigns to achieve more comfort and utility for passengers and crewwithin carrier-imposed restraints on cost, weight, maintenancedown-time, and safety. Commercial passenger aircraft generally includeoverhead luggage storage bins mounted from the ceiling, walls or otherstructural portion of the aircraft over the passenger seats. These binsare designed to accommodate the size, shape, and weight of passengercarry-on luggage.

Other overhead storage bin assemblies are well known in the art. Forexample, see U.S. Patent Publication No. 2011/0253837 published Oct. 20,2011, U.S. Pat. No. 4,637,642 issued on Jan. 20, 1987 and U.S. Pat. No.5,567,028 issued on Oct. 22, 1996, the entireties of which are herebyincorporated by reference.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a side elevational view of two pivot bin assemblies inaccordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention showinga first pivot bin assembly in an open position and a second pivot binassembly in a closed position;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a portion of an aircraft cabin with aseries of pivot bin assemblies installed therein;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the pivot bin assemblies of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the pivot bin assemblies of FIG. 1 withluggage therein;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the pivot bin assemblies of FIG. 1 withone of the buckets exploded therefrom;

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 6-6 of FIG. 1;

FIG. 7A is a cross-sectional view taken along the same line as FIG. 6,but showing an alternative embodiment for securing the bucket to theupper housing;

FIG. 7B is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the pivot binassemblies of FIG. 1;

FIG. 7C is a cross-sectional view taken along line 7C-7C of FIG. 1;

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of one of the pivot bin assemblies ofFIG. 1 and showing how a standard piece of luggage fits therein;

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of one of the pivot bin assemblies ofFIG. 1 with the PSU channel omitted;

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a pivot bin assembly with adifferent valence;

FIG. 11 is a detailed cross-sectional view showing a rotary damper pivotmechanism providing the pivot point between the side panel and thebucket;

FIG. 12 is a detailed cross-sectional view showing a pivot axle as thepivot mechanism providing the pivot point between the side panel and thebucket;

FIG. 13 is an elevational view showing the first latch assembly in thelatched position;

FIG. 14 is an elevational view showing the first latch assembly in theunlatched position;

FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the first latch assembly in thelatched position;

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a portion of an aircraft cabin showinga plurality of pivot bin assemblies and PSU pods installed therein andshowing an empty PSU channel;

FIG. 17A is a perspective view of the interior of an aircraft showing aseries of PSU pod assemblies installed therein with cabin lightingshining upwardly;

FIG. 17B is a perspective view of the interior of an aircraft showing aseries of PSU pod assemblies installed therein with cabin lightingshining outwardly;

FIG. 17C is a perspective view of the interior of an aircraft showing aseries of PSU pod assemblies installed therein with cabin lightingshining downwardly;

FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of a PSU pod assembly and showing thepassenger components and system components;

FIG. 19A is a side schematic view of a portion of a prior art aircraftshowing a series of seats with the passenger components and systemcomponents located thereabove in the PSU channel;

FIG. 19B is an end schematic view of a portion of a prior art aircraftshowing a series of seats with the passenger components and systemcomponents located thereabove in the PSU channel;

FIG. 20A is an end schematic view of a portion of an aircraft showing aseries of seats with the passenger components and system componentslocated thereabove; and

FIG. 20B is a side schematic view of a portion of an aircraft showing aseries of seats with the passenger components and system componentslocated thereabove.

SUMMARY OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

In accordance with a first aspect of the present invention there isprovided a pivot bin assembly that is configured to receive luggage andbe positioned in the interior of an aircraft. The pivot bin assemblyincludes an upper housing that includes a strongback and first andsecond side panels, a bucket that cooperates with the upper housing todefine a bin interior, a first pivot mechanism operatively associatedwith the first side panel and the bucket, and a second pivot mechanismoperatively associated with the second side panel and the bucket. Thefirst and second pivot mechanisms are axially aligned along and arerotatable about a pivot axis such that the bucket pivots about the pivotaxis with respect to the upper housing between an open position and aclosed position. In a preferred embodiment, the bucket includes a bottomand first and second opposing sides, and, when the pivot bin assemblyreceives luggage in the bin interior, the luggage is positioned on thebottom of the bucket, which bears the load of the luggage. The first andsecond side panels include a bottom edge and the first and second sidesof the bucket include a top edge, and in the closed position, at least aportion of the top edge of the first side of the bucket abuts the bottomedge of the first side panel, and at least a portion of the top edge ofthe second side of the bucket abuts the bottom edge of the second sidepanel. Preferably, the bottom of the bucket includes a top edge thatabuts a front bottom edge of the strongback when the bucket is in theclosed position. The top edge of the bottom and sides of the bucketforms a generally continuous abutment edge that abuts the front bottomedge of the strongback and at least a portion of the bottom edge of thefirst and second side panels.

In a preferred embodiment, the first side panel includes a first earextending downwardly therefrom and the second side panel includes asecond ear extending downwardly therefrom, and the first side of thebucket includes a first indented portion that receives the first ear andthe second side of the bucket includes a second indented portion thatreceives the second ear. The first pivot mechanism extends between thefirst ear and the first indented portion and the second pivot mechanismextends between the second ear and the second indented portion. In apreferred embodiment, in the closed position, in a direction generallyparallel to the pivot axis, the first and second side panels do notoverlap the first and second sides of the bucket. In another preferredembodiment, in the closed position, in a direction generally parallel tothe pivot axis, the first and second side panels do not overlap thefirst and second sides of the bucket, except for where the first andsecond ears overlap with the first and second indented portions.

The pivot bin assembly further includes at least one latch assembly forsecuring the bucket to the upper housing in the closed position. In apreferred embodiment, the pivot bin assembly includes first and secondlatch assemblies and the first latch assembly is associated with thefirst side panel and the first side of the bucket, and the second latchassembly is associated with the second side panel and the second side ofthe bucket. Preferably, the first latch assembly includes a first hookportion and a first striker portion and the second latch assemblyincludes a second hook portion and a second striker portion. One of thefirst hook portion and the first striker portion is associated with thefirst side panel and the other of the first hook portion and the firststriker portion is associated with the first side of the bucket and oneof the second, hook portion and the second, striker portion isassociated with the second side panel and the other of the second hookportion and the second, striker portion is associated with the secondside of the bucket. In a preferred, embodiment, the first hook portionextends downwardly from the bottom edge of the first side panel and thefirst striker portion is positioned in a first recess defined in the topedge of the first side of the bucket, and the second hook portionextends downwardly from the bottom edge of the second side panel and thesecond striker portion is positioned in a second recess defined in thetop edge of the second side of the bucket. In another preferredembodiment, the first hook portion extends upwardly from the top edge ofthe first side of the bucket and the first striker portion is positionedin a first recess defined in the bottom edge of the first side panel,and the second hook portion extends upwardly from the top edge of thesecond side of the bucket and the second striker portion is positionedin a second recess defined in the bottom edge of the second side panel.In a preferred embodiment, the first and second latch assemblies are inelectrical communication with an operating member disposed on thebucket.

In a preferred embodiment, the first and second pivot mechanismscomprise first and second rotary dampers that damp the rotation of thefirst and second pivot mechanisms, respectively, when the bucket pivotsto the open position. Preferably, the first rotary-damper is positionedin an opening in the first ear and a first pivot axle extends from thefirst rotary damper to the first side of the bucket, and the secondrotary damper is positioned in an opening in the second ear and a secondpivot axle extends from the second rotary damper to the second side ofthe bucket.

In a preferred embodiment, the upper housing includes a passengerservice unit (“PSU”) channel integral therewith that is positioned,adjacent to the bucket. Preferably, the PSU channel includes at least afirst PSU pod extending downwardly therefrom. The upper housing includesfirst and second rails, and the PSU pod extends downwardly from a panelthat includes first and second connectors that are secured to the firstand second rails, respectively. Preferably, the PSU channel includessystems components disposed therein, and the PSU pod includes passengercomponents disposed therein. In a preferred embodiment, the upperhousing includes an ECS channel integral therewith that is separate fromthe PSU channel.

In a preferred embodiment, the pivot bin assembly can fit therein fourpieces of standard luggage. Each piece of standard luggage includes atop, a bottom, a front, a back and two sides and the four pieces ofstandard luggage are received in the bin interior and positioned suchthat one of the two sides of each piece of standard luggage is restingon the bucket bottom when the bucket is in the closed position. In apreferred embodiment, the bucket is made of a single piece that iscreated or formed on a mold in a single operation. Preferably, thebucket defines a lower portion of the bin interior and the upper housingdefines an upper portion of the bin interior.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention there isprovided a pivot bin assembly that is configured to receive luggage andbe positioned in the interior of an aircraft. The pivot bin assemblyincludes an upper housing that includes a strongback and first andsecond side panels, a bucket that cooperates with the upper housing todefine a bin interior and is pivotally connected to the upper housingsuch that it pivots about a pivot axis with respect to the upper housingbetween an open position and a closed position. The bucket includes abottom and first and second sides. The pivot bin assembly also includesfirst and second latch assemblies. The first latch assembly isassociated with the first side panel and the first side of the bucket,and the second latch assembly is associated, with the second side paneland the second side of the bucket.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention there isprovided a pivot bin assembly that is configured to receive luggage andbe positioned, in the interior of an aircraft. The pivot bin assemblyincludes an upper housing that includes a strongback and first andsecond side panels that each include a bottom edge, and a bucket thatcooperates with the upper housing to define a bin interior and includesa bottom and first and second opposing sides. When the pivot binassembly receives luggage in the bin interior, the luggage is positionedon the bottom of the bucket. The first and second sides of the bucketinclude a top edge and the bottom of the bucket includes a top edge. Thepivot bin assembly also includes a first pivot mechanism operativelyassociated with the first side panel and the bucket, and a second pivotmechanism operatively associated with the second side panel and thebucket. The first and second pivot mechanisms are axially aligned alongand rotatable about a pivot axis, and the bucket pivots about the pivotaxis with respect to the upper housing between an open position and aclosed position. When the bucket is in the closed position, the top edgeof the bottom and sides of the bucket forms a generally continuousabutment edge that abuts the front bottom edge of the strongback and atleast a portion of the first and second side panels. The pivot binassembly also includes first and second latch assemblies for securingthe bucket to the upper housing in the closed position. The first latchassembly includes a first hook portion and a first striker portion andthe second latch assembly includes a second hook portion and a secondstriker portion. The first hook portion extends downwardly from thebottom edge of the first side panel and the first striker portion ispositioned in a first recess defined in the top edge of the first sideof the bucket. The second hook portion extends downwardly from thebottom edge of the second side panel and the second striker portion ispositioned in a second recess defined in the top edge of the second sideof the bucket. The first and second latch assemblies are in electricalcommunication with an operating member disposed on the bucket.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, there isprovided a dual pivot bin assembly that includes first and second pivotbin assemblies as described above positioned adjacent one another, butthat include a common strongback.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, there isprovided an aircraft that comprises a cabin having a side wall, and thathas at least first and second of the pivot bin assemblies describedabove that are connected to the side wall.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, there isprovided a pivot bin assembly that is configured to receive luggage andbe positioned in the interior of an aircraft. The pivot bin assemblyincludes an upper housing that includes first and second side panels anda strongback that includes an integral PSU channel formed therewith, abucket that cooperates with the upper housing to define a bin interior,a first pivot mechanism operatively associated with the first side paneland the bucket, and a second pivot mechanism operatively associated withthe second side panel and the bucket. The bucket pivots about the pivotaxis with respect to the upper housing between an open position and aclosed position. In a preferred embodiment, the strongback includesfirst and second rails that, when the pivot bin assembly is positionedin an aircraft, extend generally parallel to a longitudinally extendingaxis of the aircraft, and the pivot bin assembly includes at least onepanel that is connected to the first and second rails and partiallydefines the PSU channel. Preferably, the at least one panel includes aPSU pod extending downwardly therefrom that includes reading lightsdisposed therein and has cabin lighting associated therewith.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The following description and drawings are illustrative and are not tobe construed, as limiting. Numerous specific details are described toprovide a thorough understanding of the disclosure. However, in certaininstances, well-known or conventional details are not described, inorder to avoid obscuring the description. References to one or anembodiment in the present disclosure can be, but not necessarily arereferences to the same embodiment; and, such references mean at leastone of the embodiments.

Reference in this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment”means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic describedin connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodimentof the-disclosure. The appearances of the phrase “in one embodiment” invarious places in the specification are not necessarily all referring tothe same embodiment, nor are separate or alternative embodimentsmutually exclusive of other embodiments. Moreover, various features aredescribed which may be exhibited by some embodiments and not by others.Similarly, various requirements are described which may be requirementsfor some embodiments but not other embodiments.

The terms used in this specification generally have their ordinarymeanings in the art, within the context of the disclosure, and in thespecific context where each term is used. Certain terms that are used todescribe the disclosure are discussed below, or elsewhere in thespecification, to provide additional guidance to the practitionerregarding the description of the disclosure. For convenience, certainterms may be highlighted, for example using italics and/or quotationmarks: The use of highlighting has no influence on the scope and meaningof a term; the scope and meaning of a term is the same, in the samecontext, whether or not it is highlighted.

It will be appreciated that the same thing can be said in more than oneway. Consequently, alternative language and synonyms may be used for anyone or more of the terms discussed, herein. No special significance isto be placed upon whether or not a term is elaborated or discussedherein. Synonyms for certain terms are provided. A recital of one ormore synonyms does not exclude the use of other synonyms. The use ofexamples anywhere in this specification including examples of any termsdiscussed herein is illustrative only, and is not intended to furtherlimit the scope and meaning of the disclosure or of any exemplifiedterm. Likewise, the disclosure is not limited to various embodimentsgiven in this specification.

Without intent to further limit the scope of the disclosure, examples ofinstruments, apparatus, methods and their related results according tothe embodiments of the present disclosure are given below. Note thattitles or subtitles may be used in the examples for convenience of areader, which in no way should limit the scope of the disclosure. Unlessotherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein havethe same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in theart to which this disclosure pertains. In the case of conflict, thepresent document, including definitions, will control.

It will be appreciated that terms such as “front,” “back,” “top,”“bottom,” “side,” “short,” “long,” “up,” “down,” “aft,” “forward,”“inboard,” “outboard” and “below” used herein are merely for ease ofdescription and refer to the orientation of the components as shown inthe figures. It should be understood that any orientation of thecomponents described herein is within the scope of the presentinvention.

Referring now to the drawings, wherein the showings are for purposes ofillustrating the present invention and not for purposes of limiting thesame, FIGS. 1-16 show a pivot bin assembly 10. In particular, theinvention can be used on commercial passenger aircraft. However, this isnot a limitation on the present invention and the pivot bin assembly 10can be used elsewhere.

The present invention pivot bin assembly 10 employs a “clamshelldesign.” In a preferred embodiment, the pivot bin assembly 10 allows asmuch of the entire volume inside the bin as possible to be used,increasing volume and baggage capacity when compared to the prior art.The design and structure also provides a way to integrate systems suchas environmental control system (“ECS”) ducting and electrical.

As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, within the cabin ofan aircraft, overhead stowage bins are typically secured to attachmentpoints, such as hard points and overhead and side attachments.Accordingly, a description of the attachment of the pivot bin assemblywill be omitted.

FIGS. 1-16 show a dual pivot bin assembly that is essentially two pivotbin assemblies 10 with a common strongback 12 and that can be installedtogether in the cabin of an aircraft. However, it will be understood bythose of ordinary skill in the art, that a single and separate pivot binassembly 10 with a single strongback 12 is within the scope of thepresent invention and is described and claimed herein. In anotherembodiment, more than two or multiple pivot bin assemblies 10 caninclude a common strongback 12. The figures show pivot bin assemblies 10that are positioned outboard on the aircraft. However, it will beappreciated, that the pivot bin assembly 10 can be used inboard on awide body aircraft. For example, two sets of back to back outboardfacing pivot bin assemblies 10 can include a common strongback 12.

In a preferred embodiment, the pivot bin assembly 10 includes thestrongback 12, a tray or bucket 14 with a first and a second pivotmechanism or pivot axle 16 a and 16 b on each side, and first and secondside panels 18 a and 18 b. With respect to each pivot bin assembly 10,the strongback 12 and first and second side panels 18 a and 18 b arereferred to herein together as the upper housing 26. Generally, thepivot bin assembly 10 includes the upper housing 26, which includes thestrongback 12 and the first and second side panels 18 a and 18 b, andthe bucket 14. The bucket 14 and upper housing 26 cooperate to define abin interior 36. In a preferred embodiment, the bucket 14 defines thelower portion of the bin interior 36 and the upper housing defines theupper portion of the bin interior 36.

In the embodiment shown in the figures, the strongback 12 and first andsecond side panels 18 a and 18 b are separate components. However, inanother embodiment, the strongback 12 and first and second side panels18 a and 18 b (the upper housing 26) can be a unitary component. In apreferred embodiment, the pivot bin assembly 10 includes a single piecebucket 14 that includes a bottom 28 and first and second opposing sides24 a and 24 b. In another embodiment, the bucket 14 can include multiplepieces, e.g., a three piece design that includes the bottom 28 and firstand second opposing sides 24 a and 24 b as separate components. It willbe appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that the bucket 14and upper housing 26 provide a “clamshell design,” where at least aportion of the bottom edge 19 a of the first side panel 18 a and thebottom edge 19 b of the second side panel 18 b and the front bottom edge12 a of the strongback 12 meet edge to edge with or abut the top edge 14a of the bucket 14. In a preferred embodiment, in the closed position,other than the rear top edge 28 b of the bottom 28 of the bucket 14 andthe area adjacent thereto and the strongback 12 (see FIG. 8), there islittle to no overlap between the bucket 14 and the upper housing 26. Ina preferred embodiment, other than the localized overlap between thefirst and second ears 20 a and 20 b and the first and second indentedportions 22 a and 22 b, in the closed position, there is no overlapbetween the first and second side panels 18 a and 18 b and the first andsecond sides 24 a and 24 b of the bucket 14. In other words, in apreferred embodiment, the bucket 14 does not enter the upper portion ofthe bin interior 36, which is defined by the upper housing 26, when thebucket 14 is pivoted to the closed position. It will be appreciated bythose skilled in the art, that not only does this increase stowagevolume and reduce weight by eliminating redundant paneling, but alsosignificantly decreases the number of parts needed for the entire pivotbin assembly 10, compared to the prior art. As shown in the figures, thestrongback 12 can include an integral valence 34 for lighting, ductingand/or other system components that can be generally hidden frompassenger view. In a preferred embodiment, the valence 34 is formed as aunitary portion of the strongback 12. However, this is not a limitationon the present invention and the valence 34 can be omitted. As will beappreciated by those skilled in the art, within the cabin of anaircraft, overhead stowage bins are typically secured to attachmentpoints, such as hard points and overhead and side attachments.Accordingly, a detailed description of the attachment of the pivot binassembly will be omitted.

When the bucket 14 is pivoted to the closed position, the first andsecond sides 24 a and 24 b of the bucket 14 are not received in theupper portion of the bin interior 36. In other words, in the portion ofthe first and second side panels 18 a and 18 b that do not include thefirst and second ears 20 a and 20 b and first and second indentedportions 22 a and 22 b, the first and second top edges 25 a and 25 b donot pass or overlap with the first and second bottom edges 19 a and 19 bwhen the bucket 14 is pivoted to the closed position. Preferably, thefirst and second top edges 25 a and 25 b and first and second bottomedges 19 a and 19 b abut one another. However, an embodiment is possiblewhere the first and second top edges 25 a and 25 b and first and secondbottom edges 19 a and 19 b are horizontally separated from one another,but, in a vertical direction, the first and second top edges 25 a and 25b do not pass or overlap with the first and second bottom edges 19 a and19 b when the bucket 14 is pivoted to the closed position.

In a preferred embodiment, the strongback 12, bucket 14 and first andsecond side panels 18 a and 18 b are made out of crush-core panel.However, this is not a limitation on the present invention and othermaterials can be used. In an exemplary embodiment, the single piecebucket 14 is made using crush core match metal molding. This creates acontinuous composite structure with a C-frame cross section that can bemade from a single mold. The continuous piece acts as a structuralI-beam. However, this structure is not a limitation on the presentinvention.

As shown in FIGS. 1-12, generally, first and second side panels 18 a and18 b include first and second pivot mechanisms 16 a and 16 b that areoperatively associated with the bucket 14, and allow the bucket 14 topivot with respect to the upper housing 26 between an open position anda closed position. Any type of pivot mechanism that allows the bucket 14to pivot with respect to the upper housing 26 is within the scope of thepresent invention. For example, the first and second pivot mechanisms 16a and 16 b can be pivot axles, as shown in FIG. 12. It will beappreciated that the first and second pivot mechanisms 16 a and 16 b oraxles pivot or rotate about a pivot axis. In a preferred embodiment, thefirst and second pivot mechanisms 16 a and 16 b are axially aligned suchthat the pivot axles rotate about the same axis A1, as shown in FIGS. 7Cand 8.

In a preferred embodiment, the first side panel 18 a includes a firstear 20 a and the second side panel 18 b includes a second ear 20 bextending downwardly therefrom. The first and second ears 20 a and 20 bmate with or are received in first and second indented portions 22 a and22 b that are formed in the first and second sides 24 a and 24 b of thebucket 14. As shown in the figures, preferably, the first and secondindented portions 22 a and 22 b extend inwardly into the interior of thebucket 14. However, in another embodiment, the indented portions canextend outwardly. Furthermore, in another embodiment, the ears canextend upwardly from the bucket and the indented portions can be definedinwardly or outwardly on the side panels of the upper housing.

In a preferred embodiment, the first side panel 18 a, first ear 20 a andthe first side 24 a of the bucket 14 (other than the first indented,portion 22 a) all are positioned in a generally common plane PI (seeFIG. 6). Likewise, the second, side panel 18 b, second ear 20 b and thesecond side 24 b of the bucket 14 (other than the second indentedportion 22 b) all are positioned in a generally common plane. In anotherembodiment, the first and second ears 20 a and 20 b can be part of thebucket 14 and the first and second indented portions 22 a and 22 b canbe defined in the first and second side panels 18 a and 18 b.

As discussed above, and as shown in FIGS. 6 and 8, in a preferredembodiment, in the closed position, the bottom edges of the first andsecond side panels 18 a and 18 b abut the top edges 25 a and 25 b of thefirst and second sides 24 a and 24 b of the bucket 14 (FIG. 6) and thefront bottom edge 12 a of the strongback 12 abuts the front top edge 28a of the bottom 28 of the bucket 14 (FIGS. 8 and 14). As is also shownin FIGS. 8 and 14, the bottom 28 of they bucket 14 includes a rear topedge 28 b that is positioned adjacent to but does not abut a rear bottomedge 12 b of the strongback 12. This allows a portion of the bottom 28of the bucket to overlap with the strongback 12 when the bucket 14pivots to the open position. It will be appreciated by those skilled inthe art that in a commercial embodiment, the bucket and/or upper housingmay include edge trim, seals or the like that cover the top edges of thebucket or the bottom edges of the upper housing. However, this is not alimitation on the present invention and any such components areconsidered part of the upper housing or bucket for purposes of theclaims appended hereto. In a preferred embodiment, the pivot binassembly 10 includes at least one stop member 15 (and preferably aplurality of stop members) positioned within the bin interior 36 andthat maintains the bucket 14 in the open position and prevents it frompivoting too far. Any type of stop member 15 is within the scope of thepresent invention. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, the stop member 15can abut the angled top edge 14 b of the back of the bucket 14 and/orthe rear top edge 28 b of the bottom 28 of the bucket 28. The stopmember 15 can be a separate component or be built in to the upperhousing 26 (e.g., a ledge).

In a preferred embodiment, the first pivot mechanism 16 a extendsbetween the first ear 20 a and the first side 24 a of the bucket 14 andthe second, pivot mechanism 16 b extends between the second ear 20 b andsecond first side 24 b of the bucket 14. As discussed above, the firstand second pivot mechanisms can be pivot axles on which the bucket 14can rotate. As shown in FIGS. 5-6 and 7B-7C, a portion of the firstpivot mechanism 16 a can be positioned in corresponding openings 32 aand 33 a in the first ear 20 a and first side 24 a, respectively, and aportion of the second pivot mechanism 16 b can be positioned incorresponding openings 32 b and 33 b in the second ear 20 b and secondside 24 b, respectively. In another embodiment, a pivot axle can extendfrom the bucket and into an opening in the ear or vice versa. Any pairof pivot mechanisms that are axially aligned and that allow the bucket14 to pivot with respect to the upper housing 26 is within the scope ofthe present invention.

As shown in FIG. 11, in a preferred embodiment, the first and secondpivot mechanism comprise first and second rotary dampers 17 a and 17 b.With respect to the first rotary damper 17 a, one of the housing 19 orthe axle 21 is secured within opening 32 a and the other is securedwithin opening 33 a. With respect to the second rotary damper 17 b, oneof the housing 19 or the axle 21 is secured within opening 32 b and theother is secured within opening 33 b. It will be appreciated that FIG.11 only shows the first rotary damper 17 a, but that second rotarydamper 17 b is a mirror image thereof. The first and second rotarydampers 17 a and 17 b can include covers 23 to secure them in place.

It will be understood that the first and second rotary dampers 17 a and17 b provide the ability to damp or control the descent or pivoting ofthe bucket when it pivots to the open position. In a preferredembodiment, the first and second rotary dampers can be the rotary dampertaught in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2013/0207529 the entirety of whichis incorporated by reference. In another embodiment, the first andsecond rotary dampers can be the rotary damper taught in U.S. PatentPublication No. 2013/0209221 the entirety of which is incorporated byreference. In another embodiment, each of the first and second sidepanels 18 a and 18 b can include a cover 23 positioned on the outside orthe inside of the bin interior 36 and that secures the first and secondside panels 18 a and 18 b to the bucket 14 and that covers and housesthe first and second pivot mechanism 16 a and 16 b. It will beappreciated that any type of power assist (for raising or lowering thebucket) or damper is within the scope of the present invention. Forexample, the present invention can utilize a prior art damper, such as alinear damper that includes a cylinder with a piston and damping fluidtherein or a spring for assist, as is known in the art.

As shown in FIGS. 1-5 and, more specifically in FIGS. 13-15, in apreferred embodiment, the pivot bin assembly 10 includes first andsecond latch assemblies 40 a and 40 b operatively associated with thefirst and second side panels 18 a and 18 b and the first and secondsides 24 a and 24 b of the bucket 14. Preferably, the first latchassembly 40 a includes a first hook portion 42 a and a first strikerportion 44 a and the second latch assembly 40 b includes a second hookportion 42 b and a second striker portion 44 b. In a preferredembodiment, the first hook portion 42 a extends downwardly from thebottom edge 19 a of the first side panel 18 a and the first strikerportion 44 a is positioned in a first recess 41 a defined in the topedge 25 a of the first side 24 a of the bucket 14 and the second hookportion 42 b extends downwardly from the bottom edge 19 b of the secondside panel 18 b and the second striker portion 44 b is positioned in asecond recess 41 b defined in the top edge 25 b of the second side 24 bof the bucket 14. In another embodiment, the first hook portion 42 aextends upwardly from the top edge 25 a of the first side 24 a of thebucket 14 and the first striker portion 44 a is positioned in a firstrecess defined in the bottom edge of the first side panel 18 a, and thesecond hook portion 42 b extends upwardly from the top edge 25 b of thesecond side 24 b of the bucket 14 and the second striker portion 44 b ispositioned in a second recess defined in the bottom edge of the secondside panel 18 b. In another preferred embodiment, the first strikerportion 44 a extends downwardly from the bottom edge 19 a of the firstside panel 18 a and the first hook portion 42 a is positioned in a firstrecess 41 a defined in the top edge 25 a of the first side 24 a of thebucket 14 and the second striker portion 44 b extends downwardly fromthe bottom edge 19 b of the second side panel 18 b and the second hookportion 42 b is positioned in a second recess 41 b defined in the topedge 25 b of the second side 24 b of the bucket 14. In anotherembodiment, the first striker portion 44 a extends upwardly from the topedge 25 a of the first side 24 a of the bucket 14 and the first hookportion 42 a is positioned in a first recess defined in the bottom edgeof the first side panel 18 a, and the second striker portion 44 bextends upwardly from the top edge 25 b of the second side 24 b of thebucket 14 and the second hook portion 42 b is positioned in a secondrecess defined in the bottom edge of the second side panel 18 b. Thefirst and second latch assemblies 40 a and 40 b can be actuated manuallyor electronically. As shown in FIG. 5, the pivot bin assembly 10preferably includes an operating member 27 disposed on the bucket 14. Ina preferred embodiment, the operating member 27 comprises a switch thatis in electrical communication (with wires or wirelessly) with the firstand second latch assemblies 40 a and 40 b.

It will be appreciated, that any type of latching mechanism that allowsthe bucket 14 to connect to the upper housing 26 is within the scope ofthe present invention. Furthermore, it will be appreciated that theterms first hook portion and second hook portion refer to the entireassembly secured to the upper housing in the figures. And, the termsfirst striker portion and second striker portion refer to the entireassembly secured, to the upper housing in the figures. The hook portioncan be any latching mechanism that includes a hook or latch that mateswith or latches to a striker. FIGS. 13-15 show an exemplary embodimentof the first latch assembly 40 a. It will be understood that the secondlatch assembly 40 b includes essentially the same components. FIGS. 13and 15 show the first latch assembly 40 a in the latched position andFIG. 14 shows the first latch assembly 40 a in the unlatched position.Preferably, the first hook portion 42 a is mounted in a recess 29 a inthe first side panel 18 a and includes a housing 31 a, a hook 35 a andguide members 37 a that help guide the striker 39 a (which can besecured in place by a threaded fastener 51 a) into the desired position.As is known in the art, the hook 35 a can be mounted on a pivot pin andinclude a spring 43 a for urging it into the desired position.Preferably the first striker portion 44 a includes a housing 45 a thatdefines a guide recess 47 a defined therein and that is spanned by thestriker 39 a. In use, when the bucket 14 is pivoted to the closedposition, the guide members 37 a are received in the guide recess 47 a,and, as a result of the angle on the bottom edge of the hook 35 a andthe round shape of the striker 39 a, the hook 35 a is pivoted out of theway and the striker 39 a is received fully between the guide members 37a. As a result of the spring 43 a, the hook 35 a is urged into theposition shown in FIG. 13, and the first latch assembly 40 a is now inthe latched position.

It will be appreciated, by those skilled in the art that by the firstand second hook portions 42 a and 42 b extending downwardly from thefirst and second side panels 18 a and 18 b and latching to first andsecond striker portions 44 a and 44 b, which are essentially embedded inthe first and second sides 24 a and 24 b of the bucket 14 allows the topedge 14 a of the bucket 14 (i.e., top edges 25 a and 25 b and front topedge 28 a to abut the bottom edge (bottom edges 19 a and 19 b and frontbottom edge 12 a) of the upper housing 26. In other words, the firstside panel 18 a, the first side 24 a of the bucket 14 and the firstlatch assembly 40 a are all lined up generally vertically and the secondside panel 18 b, the second side 24 b of the bucket 14 and the secondlatch assembly 40 b are all lined up generally vertically.

The first and second latch assemblies 40 a and 40 b shown in the figuresare not a limitation on the present invention and any type of latchassembly or mechanism for securing the bucket 14 to the upper housing 26is within the scope of the present invention. For example, the pivot binassembly can include a center latch that connects the bucket to thestrongback.

As shown in FIGS. 4, 8, 9, 10 and 16, the inventive pivot bin assembly10 is designed to stow standard Travel Pro 22″ bags or luggage 11 wheelsfirst on their edge (this type of bag is referred to herein as “standardluggage”). As will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art,storage of a maximum amount of luggage within overhead stowage bins isof utmost importance in passenger aircraft and the standard luggagediscussed herein is used as an industry standard when determining theamount of cargo that will fit into overhead stowage bins. As shown inFIG. 4, a piece of standard luggage 11 includes a top 11 a, a bottom 11b, a front 11 c, a back 11 d and two sides 11 e. Typically, the standardluggage 11 includes wheels on the bottom 11 b thereof. In a preferredembodiment of the present invention, a pivot bin assembly 10 can stow upto four pieces of standard luggage within the bin interior. However,this is not a limitation on the present invention. In anotherembodiment, the present invention can store more or less standardluggage.

In a preferred embodiment, the pivot axis A1 or pivot point provided bythe first and second pivot mechanisms 16 a and 16 b is not along thesame lengthwise axis as the luggage stored within the bin interior, butis instead non-centrally located. Furthermore, the center of gravity ofthe luggage in the bin interior is moved, outboard when compared to theprior art and closer to the pivot axis A1, thereby making the bucket 14easier to close. Furthermore, compared to prior art pivot bins, thepivot bin assembly 10 can be moved further outboard from the aisle,thereby providing more passenger space and an open cabin feel. However,none of the statements that include comparisons to the prior art areintended to be a limitation on the present invention.

With reference to FIGS. 19A-19B, as will be appreciated by those ofordinary skill in the art, passenger aircraft typically include what isreferred to as a passenger service unit (“PSU”), which is situatedgenerally above each seat row (although not typically at the same pitchwith respect to each seat row) in the overhead panel above the passengerseats in the cabin of airliners. Amongst other things a PSU containsreading lights, loudspeakers, illuminated signs and automaticallydeployed oxygen masks and also gaspers providing conditioned air.Passenger service units typically include individual PSU panels 117 thatare specialized for each function (e.g., speaker panels, reading lightpanels, spacer panels, etc.) and that are positioned on rails 116 thatrun the length of the interior of the cabin. These individual functionalspecific panels are then configured to meet the aircraft and passengerneeds, typically resulting in the configuration and installation ofthree hundred or more specialized panels. These panels 117 are installedwithin and cover a PSU channel 118 that is filled with both passengerelements 112 (e.g., reading lights, gaspers, flight attendant buttons,etc.) and systems elements 114 (wiring, oxygen tanks/components, cabinlights and associated electronics, ducting, etc.) creating a ceiling 120above the passenger that restricts\bounds the passenger's head room. Asshown in FIG. 19A, there is a fixed, distance or height H1 from thefloor 122 to the “ceiling” 120.

With reference to at least FIGS. 16-20B, in a preferred embodiment, thepivot bin assembly 10 includes an integrated PSU channel 50 and a PSUpod 52 for each passenger row. As discussed above, aircraft PSUstypically include two types of elements: passenger elements 112 (readinglights, gaspers/air vents and flight attendant call buttons) and systemselements 114 (wiring, oxygen tanks 113/components, cabin lights andassociated electronics, ducting, etc.). As shown in FIG. 18, the PSU pod52 provides a way to at least partially separate the passenger elementbundle 112 for each row from the systems elements bundle 114 for eachrow. By separating the passenger elements 112 from the systems elements114 that are typically installed in a PSU, a PSU pod 52 (for thepassenger elements 112) is configured or positioned independent of thesystems elements 114, which are positioned in the PSU channel 50. Asshown in FIGS. 18 and 20A, in a preferred embodiment, the passengerelements bundle 112 is positioned below the systems elements bundle 114.It will be appreciated that in another embodiment of the invention, thePSU pod 52 and PSU pod assembly 58 can be used with overhead binsdifferent than the clamshell design described herein. For example, thePSU pod assembly 58 can be used with other types of pivot bins or anoverhead stowage bin that is fixed but includes a pivotal door. The PSUpod assembly can be used with any overhead stowage bin that includes anenclosure for luggage and a PSU channel formed integrally therewith.

In a preferred embodiment, the PSU pod 52 preferably includes a housing54 that includes first, second, third and fourth sides 53 a, 53 b, 53 cand 53 d, a top 53 e and a bottom 53 f that cooperate to define a podinterior 59, a plurality of reading lights 60 (that are aligned with andeither extend through or shine light through reading light openings 54a), cabin lighting 62, a lens assembly 64 and a vent or gasper 66defined in the housing for gasping conditioned air. It will beappreciated that the housing can be circular, ovular or elliptical inshape. For purposes of this disclosure, these shapes are considered tohave first, second, third and fourth sides. In a preferred embodiment,the PSU pod 52 is part of a PSU pod assembly 58 that includes a panel 56that has connectors 70 a (such as hooks), that mate with rails orconnectors 70 b that are a part of the strongback 12 and extend in adirection that is generally parallel to the axis of the aircraft. In thefigures, “70” is used to designate the connection between 70 a and 70 b.It will be appreciated that any type of connection, such as hooks,rivets, threaded fasteners, magnets, snap fit arrangements or any othermethod of securing the panels 56 and PSU pod 52 to the upper housing 26or strongback 12 is within the scope of the present invention. The PSUpod 52 is connected to and extends or hangs downwardly from the panel56, thereby creating the PSU pod assembly 58. In another embodiment, thepanel can be omitted and the PSU pod itself can be connected to therails 70 b. When installed in an aircraft, wires for electricalconnection (to both the reading lights 60 and the cabin lighting 62) andducting for the gasper(s) 66 extends from the PSU channel 50 through anopening 56 a (or openings) in the panel 56 and down into the housing 54.The PSU pod 52 can include a flight attendant call button 72 thereon.

As discussed above, in a preferred embodiment, the PSU pod assembly 58also includes cabin lighting 62 that is associated with the PSU pod 52.The cabin lighting 62 can be any type of lighting (e.g., LEDs,incandescent, halogen, etc.) and can be positioned within or on housing54. In a preferred embodiment, the PSU pod assembly 58 also includes alens assembly 64 that helps direct light that shines from the cabinlighting 62 as desired. As is best shown in FIG. 17A, the light 62 afrom the cabin lighting 62 shines from the top of the PSU pod 52 andwashes along and down the panels 56, bucket 14 and sidewalls, etc, ofthe aircraft. As a result of this arrangement, in a preferredembodiment, the PSU pods 52 provide passenger specific reading lights 60that shine generally downwardly and outwardly and row specific cabinlighting that shines generally upwardly and outwardly. FIG. 17B showsanother embodiment, where the reading lights, vent and flight attendantcall button are omitted and the PSU pod 52 includes cabin lightingshining out the first, second, third and fourth sides 53 a-53 d. FIG.17C shows another embodiment, where the reading lights, vent and flightattendant call button are omitted and the PSU pod 52 includes cabinlighting shining out the bottom of the housing 54. These embodiments canalso include the reading lights, vent and flight attendant call button.These embodiments all create cabin lighting specifically for each row bypositioning the cabin lighting on or in the PSU pods 52.

With reference to FIGS. 20A-20B, as discussed above, generally, in thepresent invention, a passenger element bundle 112 is included in eachPSU pod 52 and the systems elements 114 are disposed within the PSUchannel 50 or at some other position above the ceiling defined by eitherthe overhead bins or the panels 56 used to hide the systems elements114. It will be understood that the systems elements 114 include bothrow specific elements (e.g., oxygen tanks/masks) and non-row specificelements (air ducts, electrical wiring, etc.). These elements are shownschematically in FIGS. 19A-20B as a box or bundle. However, it will beappreciated by those skilled in the art, that systems elements 114 canbe located at any position along the PSU channel 50. In a preferredembodiment, the systems elements 114 are stacked generally above the PSUpod 52 and the passenger elements 112. In other words, the PSU pod 52 ispositioned below the PSU channel 50 that houses the systems elements114. However, as discussed above, not all systems elements 114 will bepositioned directly above the passenger elements 112 or PSU pod 52. Inother words, the passenger elements 112 or PSU pod 52 or located at afirst level and the systems elements 114 are located at a second, levelor height that is higher than the passenger elements 112 or PSU pod. 52.

The PSU pod 52 changes the configuration and installation methodology ofthe prior art by using a row specific design and a completed, channel 50built in to and defined within the pivot bin assembly 10. Compared tothe prior art, this helps eliminate or reduce unnecessary spacer panels.In a preferred embodiment, each PSU pod 52 has the same pitch oralignment with respect to each row of seats 124. It will be appreciatedthat the positioning of the PSU pod assembly 58 can be adjusted as aresult of the connection 70 between the connectors 70 a and the rails 70b. In other words, the PSU pod assembly 58 can slide fore or aft on therails 70 b. Furthermore, by reducing the number of components in the PSUchannel, the height of the panels can be raised (compared to the priorart), to a height H2, that is greater than the height H1 in a similarprior art aircraft. Furthermore, although the PSU pod 52 extenddownwardly below the panels 56, in a preferred embodiment, it can bepositioned at a height H1 that is the same or similar to the height ofthe prior art ceiling 120/panel 117 height. This allows the PSU pod 52to be positioned such that the height H2 provides more passenger spaceor headroom than the prior art and positions the PSU pod 52 and theelements therein or thereon (e.g., reading lights, vents, cabinlighting, etc.) at a consistent position or pitch for each row ofpassengers. In other words, passenger headroom height between PSU pods52 is increased when compared to the prior art. However, the positioningof the PSU pod 52 is not a limitation on the present invention. Inanother embodiment, they can be positioned lower than the prior artheight H1 and/or they can be positioned such that they have a differentpitch than each row.

In another embodiment, the cabin lighting can be omitted or more or lessreading lights can be included. The switches or buttons for the readinglights 60 can be positioned, on the PSU pod. 52 or elsewhere withinreach of the passenger for which each reading light 60 is intended. In apreferred embodiment, the reading lights 60 are controlled by thepassengers seated in the row for which the PSU pod 52 is designated andthe cabin lighting 62 is controlled by the crew from a location remotefrom the passengers.

With reference to FIG. 8, in a preferred embodiment, the pivot binassembly 10 includes an environmental control system (“ECS”) thatincludes ducting and electrical. In a preferred embodiment, thestrongback 12 serves as the enclosure of the ECS ducting. As discussedabove, at least a portion of the ECS components are positioned in thePSU channel 50. However, the pivot bin assembly 10 can also include atleast one further separate ECS channel 74. Electrical wire harnesses canbe directly attached to the pivot bin assembly 10 instead of theaircraft for an easier and cleaner installation, when compared to theprior art. However, the ECS channel can be omitted and the ducting,electrical, etc. can be connected to the aircraft in another embodiment.

Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout thedescription and the claims, the words “comprise,” “comprising,” and thelike are to be construed in an inclusive sense, as opposed to anexclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in the sense of“including, but not limited to.” As used herein, the terms “connected,”“coupled,” or any variant thereof, means any connection or coupling,either direct or indirect, between two or more elements; the coupling ofconnection between the elements can be physical, logical, or acombination thereof. Additionally, the words “herein,” “above,” “below,”and words of similar import, when used in this application, shall referto this application as a whole and not to any particular portions ofthis application. Where the context permits, words in the above DetailedDescription of the Preferred Embodiments using the singular or pluralnumber may also include the plural or singular number respectively. Theword “or” in reference to a list of two or more items, covers all of thefollowing interpretations of the word: any of the items in the list, allof the items in the list, and any combination of the items in the list.

The above-detailed description of embodiments of the disclosure is notintended to be exhaustive or to limit the teachings to the precise formdisclosed above. While specific embodiments of and examples for thedisclosure are described above for illustrative purposes, variousequivalent modifications are possible within the scope of thedisclosure, as those skilled in the relevant art will recognize.Further, any specific numbers noted herein are only examples:alternative implementations may employ differing values, measurements orranges.

The teachings of the disclosure provided herein can be applied to othersystems, not necessarily the system described above. The elements andacts of the various embodiments described above can be combined toprovide further embodiments. Any measurements or dimensions described orused herein are merely exemplary and not a limitation on the presentinvention. Other measurements or dimensions are within the scope of theinvention.

Any patents and applications and other references noted above, includingany that may be listed in accompanying filing papers, are incorporatedherein by reference in their entirety. Aspects of the disclosure can bemodified, if necessary, to employ the systems, functions, and conceptsof the various references described above to provide yet furtherembodiments of the disclosure.

These and other changes can be made to the disclosure in light of theabove Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments. While the abovedescription describes certain embodiments of the disclosure, anddescribes the best mode contemplated, no matter how detailed the aboveappears in text, the teachings can be practiced in many ways. Details ofthe system may vary considerably in its implementation details, whilestill being encompassed by the subject matter disclosed herein. As notedabove, particular terminology used when describing certain features oraspects of the disclosure should not be taken to imply that theterminology is being redefined herein to be restricted to any specificcharacteristics, features or aspects of the disclosure with which thatterminology is associated. In general, the terms used in the followingclaims should not be construed to limit the disclosures to the specificembodiments disclosed in the specification unless the above DetailedDescription of the Preferred Embodiments section explicitly defines suchterms. Accordingly, the actual scope of the disclosure encompasses notonly the disclosed embodiments, but also all equivalent ways ofpracticing or implementing the disclosure under the claims.

While certain aspects of the disclosure are presented below in certainclaim forms, the inventors contemplate the various aspects of thedisclosure in any number of claim forms. For example, while only oneaspect of the disclosure is recited as a means-plus-function claim under35 U.S.C. §112, ¶6, other aspects may likewise be embodied as ameans-plus-function claim, or in other forms, such as being embodied ina computer-readable medium. (Any claims intended to be treated under 35U.S.C. §112, ¶6 will include the words “means for”). Accordingly, theapplicant reserves the right to add additional claims after tiling theapplication to pursue such additional claim forms for other aspects ofthe disclosure.

Accordingly, although exemplary embodiments of the invention have beenshown and described, it is to be understood that all the terms usedherein are descriptive rather than limiting, and that many changes,modifications, and substitutions may be made by one having ordinaryskill in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of theinvention.

What is claimed is:
 1. An aircraft storage bin comprising: an upperhousing that includes first and second side panels, a bucket thatcooperates with the upper housing to define a bin interior, wherein thebucket includes a bottom and opposing first and second sidewallsextending upwardly from the bottom, a first pivot mechanism operativelyassociated with the first side panel and the bucket, and a second pivotmechanism operatively associated with the second side panel and thebucket, wherein the first and second pivot mechanisms are axiallyaligned along a pivot axis, and wherein the bucket pivots about thepivot axis with respect to the upper housing between an open positionand a closed position, wherein the first side panel includes a first earextending downwardly therefrom and the second side panel includes asecond ear extending downwardly therefrom, wherein the first pivotmechanism extends between the first ear and the first side of the bucketand the second pivot mechanism extends between the second ear and thesecond side of the bucket, and wherein, in the closed position, in adirection generally parallel to the pivot axis, the first and secondside panels do not overlap the first and second sidewalls of the bucket,except for where the first and second ears overlap with the first andsecond sidewalls of the bucket.
 2. The aircraft storage bin of claim 1wherein the first and second side panels include a bottom edge and thefirst and second sidewalls of the bucket include a top edge.
 3. Anaircraft storage bin comprising: an upper housing that includes firstand second side panels, a bucket that cooperates with the upper housingto define a bin interior, wherein the bucket includes a bottom and firstand second opposing sidewalls extending upwardly from the bottom, afirst pivot mechanism operatively associated with the first side paneland the bucket, and a second pivot mechanism operatively associated withthe second side panel and the bucket, wherein the first and second pivotmechanisms are axially aligned along a pivot axis, and wherein thebucket pivots about the pivot axis with respect to the upper housingbetween an open position and a closed position, wherein the first sidepanel includes a first ear extending downwardly therefrom and the secondside panel includes a second ear extending downwardly therefrom, whereinthe first pivot mechanism extends between the first ear and the firstside of the bucket and the second pivot mechanism extends between thesecond ear and the second side of the bucket, wherein the first andsecond side panels include a bottom edge and the first and secondsidewalls of the bucket include a top edge, and wherein, in the closedposition, at least a portion of the top edge of the first sidewall ofthe bucket abuts the bottom edge of the first side panel, and at least aportion of the top edge of the second sidewall of the bucket abuts thebottom edge of the second side panel.
 4. The aircraft storage bin ofclaim 3 wherein the bottom of the bucket includes a top edge that abutsa front bottom edge of the upper housing when the bucket is in theclosed position.
 5. The aircraft storage bin of claim 4 wherein the topedge of the bottom and sidewalls of the bucket forms a generallycontinuous abutment edge that abuts the front bottom edge of the upperhousing and at least a portion of the bottom edge of the first andsecond side panels.
 6. An aircraft storage bin comprising: an upperhousing that includes first and second side panels, wherein the firstand second side panels include a bottom edge, a bucket that cooperateswith the upper housing to define a bin interior, wherein the bucketincludes a bottom and first and second opposing sides, wherein the firstand second sides of the bucket include a top edge, wherein, in theclosed position, the top edge of the bottom and sides of the bucket forma generally continuous abutment edge that abuts the front bottom edge ofthe upper housing and at least a portion of the bottom edge of the firstand second side panels, a first pivot mechanism operatively associatedwith the first side panel and the bucket, and a second pivot mechanismoperatively associated with the second side panel and the bucket,wherein the first and second pivot mechanisms are axially aligned alonga pivot axis, and wherein the bucket pivots about the pivot axis withrespect to the upper housing between an open position and a closedposition, wherein the first side panel includes a first ear extendingdownwardly therefrom and the second side panel includes a second earextending downwardly therefrom, wherein the first side of the bucketincludes a first indented portion that receives the first ear and thesecond side of the bucket includes a second indented portion thatreceives the second ear, and wherein the first pivot mechanism extendsbetween the first ear and the first indented portion and the secondpivot mechanism extends between the second ear and the second indentedportion.
 7. The aircraft storage bin of claim 1 further comprising atleast one latch assembly for securing the bucket to the upper housing inthe closed position.
 8. The aircraft storage bin of claim 7 furthercomprising first and second latch assemblies, wherein the first latchassembly is associated with the first side panel and the first sidewallof the bucket, and wherein the second latch assembly is associated withthe second side panel and the second sidewall of the bucket.
 9. Theaircraft storage bin of claim 8 wherein the first and second side panelseach have a bottom edge and the first and second sidewalls of the bucketeach have a top edge, wherein the first latch assembly includes a firsthook portion and a first striker portion, wherein one of the first hookportion and the first striker portion extends downwardly from the firstside panel and below the bottom edge thereof and the other of the firsthook portion and the first striker portion is associated with the firstsidewall of the bucket, wherein the second latch assembly includes asecond hook portion and a second striker portion, wherein one of thesecond hook portion and the second striker portion extends downwardlyfrom the second side panel and below the bottom edge thereof and theother of the second hook portion and the second striker portion isassociated with the second sidewall of the bucket.
 10. The aircraftstorage bin of claim 9 wherein the first hook portion extends downwardlyfrom the bottom edge of the first side panel and the first strikerportion is positioned in a first recess defined in the top edge of thefirst sidewall of the bucket, and wherein the second hook portionextends downwardly from the bottom edge of the second side panel and thesecond striker portion is positioned in a second recess defined in thetop edge of the second sidewall of the bucket.
 11. An aircraft storagebin comprising: an upper housing that includes first and second sidepanels that each include a bottom edge, a bucket that cooperates withthe upper housing to define a bin interior, wherein the bucket ispivotally connected to the upper housing and pivots about a pivot axiswith respect to the upper housing between an open position and a closedposition, wherein the bucket includes a bottom and first and secondsidewalls, wherein the first and second side walls each include a topedge, and first and second latch assemblies, wherein the first latchassembly includes a first hook portion and a first striker portion,wherein one of the first hook portion and the first striker portionextends downwardly from the first side panel and below the bottom edgethereof or upwardly from the first sidewall of the bucket, and the otherof the first hook portion and the first striker portion is positioned ina first recess defined in the top edge of the first sidewall of thebucket or the first side panel, and wherein the second latch assemblyincludes a second hook portion and a second striker portion, wherein oneof the second hook portion and the second striker portion extendsdownwardly from the second side panel and below the bottom edge thereofor upwardly from the second sidewall of the bucket, and the other of thesecond hook portion and the second striker portion is positioned in asecond recess defined in the top edge of the second sidewall of thebucket or the second side panel.
 12. An aircraft storage bin comprising:an upper housing that includes first and second side panels, a bucketthat cooperates with the upper housing to define a bin interior, a firstpivot mechanism operatively associated with the first side panel and thebucket, and a second pivot mechanism operatively associated with thesecond side panel and the bucket, wherein the first and second pivotmechanisms are axially aligned along a pivot axis, and wherein thebucket pivots about the pivot axis with respect to the upper housingbetween an open position and a closed position, wherein the first sidepanel includes a first ear extending downwardly therefrom and the secondside panel includes a second ear extending downwardly therefrom, andwherein the first pivot mechanism extends between the first ear and thefirst side of the bucket and the second pivot mechanism extends betweenthe second ear and the second side of the bucket, wherein the first andsecond pivot mechanisms comprise first and second rotary dampers thatdamp the rotation of the first and second pivot mechanisms,respectively, when the bucket pivots to the open position.
 13. Theaircraft storage bin of claim 6 wherein the first and second pivotmechanisms comprise first and second rotary dampers that damp therotation of the first and second pivot mechanisms, respectively, whenthe bucket pivots to the open position, wherein the first rotary damperis positioned in an opening in the first ear and a first pivot axleextends from the first rotary damper to the first sidewall of thebucket, and wherein the second rotary damper is positioned in an openingin the second ear and a second pivot axle extends from the second rotarydamper to the second sidewall of the bucket.
 14. The aircraft storagebin of claim 1 wherein the upper housing includes a passenger serviceunit channel integral therewith that is positioned adjacent the bucket.15. The aircraft storage bin of claim 14 wherein the passenger serviceunit channel includes at least a first passenger service unit podextending downwardly therefrom.
 16. The aircraft storage bin of claim 15wherein the upper housing includes first and second rails and thepassenger service unit pod extends downwardly from a panel that includesfirst and second connectors, wherein the first and second connectors aresecured to the first and second rails, respectively.
 17. The aircraftstorage bin of claim 15 wherein the passenger service unit channelincludes systems components disposed therein, and wherein the passengerservice unit pod includes passenger components disposed therein.
 18. Theaircraft storage bin of claim 14 wherein the upper housing includes anECS channel integral therewith, and wherein the ECS channel is separatefrom the passenger service unit channel.
 19. The aircraft storage bin ofclaim 1 in combination with four pieces of luggage, wherein each pieceof luggage includes a top, a bottom, a front, a back and two sides,wherein the four pieces of luggage are received in the bin interior andpositioned such that one of the two sides of each piece of luggage isresting on the bucket bottom when the bucket is in the closed position.20. The aircraft storage bin of claim 1 wherein the bucket is made of asingle piece that is created on a mold.
 21. The aircraft storage bin ofclaim 8 wherein a portion of the first latch assembly extends below thebottom edge of the first side panel, and wherein a portion of the secondlatch assembly extends below the bottom edge of the second side panel.22. The aircraft storage bin of claim 1 wherein the upper housingincludes a top and the first and second side panels extending downwardlyfrom the top, wherein, in the closed position, the bottom and first andsecond sidewalls of the bucket define a lower portion of the bininterior and the top and side panels of the upper housing define anupper portion of the bin interior, and wherein the lower portion andupper portion cooperate to define the bin interior when the bucket is inthe closed position.
 23. The aircraft storage bin of claim 11 whereinthe first hook portion extends upwardly from the top edge of the firstsidewall of the bucket and the first striker portion is positioned in afirst recess defined in the bottom edge of the first side panel, andwherein the second hook portion extends upwardly from the top edge ofthe second sidewall of the bucket and the second striker portion ispositioned in a second recess defined in the bottom edge of the secondside panel.
 24. The aircraft storage bin of claim 11 wherein the firsthook portion extends downwardly from the bottom edge of the first sidepanel and the first striker portion is positioned in the first recessdefined in the top edge of the first sidewall of the bucket, and whereinthe second hook portion extends downwardly from the bottom edge of thesecond side panel and the second striker portion is positioned in thesecond recess defined in the top edge of the second sidewall of thebucket.
 25. The aircraft storage bin of claim 24 wherein, in the closedposition, at least a portion of the top edge of the first sidewall ofthe bucket abuts the bottom edge of the first side panel, and at least aportion of the top edge of the second sidewall of the bucket abuts thebottom edge of the second side panel.
 26. The aircraft storage bin ofclaim 11 wherein the first and second latch assemblies are in electricalcommunication with an operating member disposed on the bucket.
 27. Anaircraft storage bin comprising: an upper housing that includes firstand second side panels, wherein the first and second side panels includea bottom edge, a bucket that cooperates with the upper housing to definea bin interior, wherein the bucket includes a bottom and first andsecond opposing sides, wherein when the pivot bin assembly receivesluggage in the bin interior, the luggage is positioned on the bottom ofthe bucket, whereby the bucket is load bearing, wherein the first andsecond sides of the bucket include a top edge, wherein the bottom of thebucket includes a top edge, a first pivot mechanism operativelyassociated with the first side panel and the bucket, and a second pivotmechanism operatively associated with the second side panel and thebucket, wherein the first and second pivot mechanisms are axiallyaligned along and rotatable about a pivot axis, and wherein the bucketpivots about the pivot axis with respect to the upper housing between anopen position and a closed position, and wherein, when the bucket is inthe closed position, the top edge of the bottom and sides of the bucketforms a generally continuous abutment edge that abuts the front bottomedge of the upper housing and at least a portion of the first and secondside panels, and first and second latch assemblies for securing thebucket to the upper housing in the closed position, wherein the firstlatch assembly includes a first hook portion and a first striker portionand the second latch assembly includes a second hook portion and asecond striker portion, wherein the first hook portion extendsdownwardly from the bottom edge of the first side panel and the firststriker portion is positioned in a first recess defined in the top edgeof the first side of the bucket, wherein the second hook portion extendsdownwardly from the bottom edge of the second side panel and the secondstriker portion is positioned in a second recess defined in the top edgeof the second side of the bucket, and wherein the first and second latchassemblies are in electrical communication with an operating memberdisposed on the bucket, wherein the first side panel includes a firstear extending downwardly therefrom and the second side panel includes asecond ear extending downwardly therefrom, wherein the first side of thebucket includes a first indented portion that receives the first ear andthe second side of the bucket includes a second indented portion thatreceives the second ear, and wherein the first pivot mechanism extendsbetween the first ear and the first indented portion and the secondpivot mechanism extends between the second ear and the second indentedportion.
 28. The aircraft storage bin of claim 27 wherein the first andsecond pivot mechanisms comprise first and second rotary dampers thatdamp the rotation of the first and second pivot mechanisms,respectively, when the bucket pivots to the open position, wherein thefirst rotary damper is positioned in an opening in the first ear and afirst pivot axle extends from the first rotary damper to the first sideof the bucket, and wherein the second rotary damper is positioned in anopening in the second ear and a second pivot axle extends from thesecond rotary damper to the second side of the bucket.
 29. A dualaircraft storage bin assembly comprising first and second aircraftstorage bins of claim 1 positioned adjacent one another and including acommon upper housing.
 30. An aircraft that comprises a cabin having aside wall, and at least first and second aircraft storage bins of claim1 connected to the side wall.
 31. The aircraft of claim 30 wherein fourpieces of luggage are received in the bin interior of the first aircraftstorage bin and four pieces of luggage are received in the bin interiorof the second aircraft storage bin, wherein each piece of luggageincludes a top, a bottom, a front, a back and two sides, wherein eachpiece of luggage is positioned such that one of the two sides is restingon the bucket bottom when the bucket is in the closed position.
 32. Anaircraft storage bin comprising: an upper housing that includes firstand second side panels, wherein the first side panel includes a firstear and the second side panel includes a second ear, a bucket thatcooperates with the upper housing to define a bin interior, wherein thebucket includes first and second sides, a first pivot mechanismoperatively associated with the first ear and the bucket, and a secondpivot mechanism operatively associated with the second ear and thebucket, wherein the bucket pivots about a pivot axis with respect to theupper housing between an open position and a closed position, andwherein, in the closed position, in a direction generally parallel tothe pivot axis, the first and second side panels do not overlap thefirst and second sidewalls of the bucket, except for where the first andsecond ears overlap with the first and second sides of the bucket. 33.The aircraft storage bin of claim 32 further comprising first and secondlatch assemblies, wherein the first latch assembly is associated withthe first side panel and the first side of the bucket, wherein thesecond latch assembly is associated with the second side panel and thesecond side of the bucket, wherein the first and second side panels eachinclude a bottom edge, and wherein a portion of the first latch assemblyextends below the bottom edge of the first side panel and a portion ofthe second latch assembly extends below the bottom edge of the secondside panel.
 34. The aircraft storage bin of claim 32 wherein the firstear extends downwardly from the first side panel, and wherein the secondear extends downwardly from the second side panel.
 35. The aircraftstorage bin of claim 34 wherein the first pivot mechanism includes afirst pivot axle that extends between the first ear and the first sideof the bucket, and wherein the second pivot mechanism includes a secondpivot axle that extends between the second ear and the second side ofthe bucket.
 36. The aircraft storage bin of claim 32 further comprisingat least one stop member positioned within the bin interior to maintainthe bucket in the open position.